As the Los Angeles Rams prepare for the upcoming NFL season, one name continues to draw quiet but meaningful praise within the building: wide receiver Tutu Atwell. In a recent media session, Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur offered a candid and optimistic evaluation of the 24-year-old, whose elite speed has always been his calling card.
“Just go out and be the best version of Tutu you can be,” LaFleur said, before highlighting Atwell’s unique trait. “We all know what his superpower is—he can run. And that kind of speed, especially at his level, it puts real fear in defenses.”
Tutu Atwell’s Growth Could Be the Los Angeles Rams’ Secret Weapon in 2025
Atwell, a former second-round pick out of Louisville, has had an up-and-down career so far. Questions about his size—he’s listed at just 165 pounds, but is 155 soaking wet according to the OC—have lingered since his rookie year. But LaFleur’s comments suggest the Rams see more than just a gadget player. Despite his slight frame, LaFleur praised Atwell’s range, flexibility, and ability to absorb contact: “He’s not an easy target to hit because he’s loose in the upper body… he doesn’t feel like a small guy out there.”
Most notably, LaFleur pointed to Atwell’s strong offseason and increased opportunity heading into 2025. “When he’s had his opportunities, he’s made the most of them. And looking at things on paper right now, it seems like he’s going to get more chances than ever.”
With Cooper Kupp gone, Davante Adams’ short term deal, and the Rams offense in transition, Atwell’s emergence could give Matthew Stafford a reliable deep threat who forces defenses to account for vertical speed on every snap. LaFleur’s praise wasn’t just lip service—it felt like a preview of things to come.
“We love Tutu. Just really happy he’s back with us,” LaFleur concluded.
LA may be building toward the future, but if Atwell continues his upward trajectory, that future might arrive sooner than expected.
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